C++ Engineer

Job Title: C++ Engineer – On-Board Payload Software (LEO Satellite Program) Job Description This C++ Engineer role focuses on developing and maintaining embedded on-board payload software for a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite program. You will work with modern C++ on Linux-based embedded systems, contribute to networking solutions, and help build tools, libraries, and frameworks that support one of the largest space programs in Canadian history. This is a long-term consulting engagement, scheduled at least through early 2028, offering the opportunity to work on complex, mission-critical software in a highly technical environment. Responsibilities • Develop and maintain embedded software modules using modern C++ (primarily C++17 and C++20, with openness to C++11 and C++14 where appropriate). • Design, implement, and enhance new features and functionality from concept through to deployment in embedded environments. • Assist in the implementation of networking solutions to ensure reliable and seamless communication between software components. • Contribute to the development of software tools, libraries, and frameworks that improve product quality, maintainability, and engineering efficiency. • Participate actively in code reviews, providing constructive feedback to improve code quality, performance, and adherence to coding standards. • Collaborate with the team to troubleshoot, debug, and resolve software defects and technical issues in embedded and networking contexts. • Support the integration of software components on Linux operating systems, including configuration, build, and deployment activities. • Assist in testing and validating software features to confirm that functionality, performance, and reliability meet specified requirements. • Work closely with cross-functional teams, including product management and design, to clarify requirements and contribute to technical discussions and solution design. • Maintain clear, organized, and up-to-date documentation of software designs, architectures, processes, and development tasks. • Apply knowledge of embedded systems, networking protocols, and satellite communications to ensure robust and reliable on-board payload software. • Use version control platforms such as GitLab or GitHub to manage code repositories, branching strategies, and collaborative development workflows. Essential Skills • 9–15 years of professional software engineering experience, with a focus on C++ development in embedded or systems-level contexts (sr level). • Strong proficiency in modern C++ (C++17 and C++20 preferred), with the ability to work effectively with C++11 and C++14 codebases. • Hands-on experience developing new features and functionality from start to finish, including design, implementation, testing, and integration. • Proficiency with Linux as a development and deployment environment for embedded or systems software. • Experience with embedded systems and embedded software development, including resource-constrained environments. • Solid understanding of basic networking protocols such as Ethernet, TCP/IP, and UDP, and how they apply to distributed or networked systems. • Ability to read, interpret, and implement formal requirements and specifications in a structured engineering environment. • Experience with networking-related technologies such as routers, switches, and Ethernet-based communication. • Practical experience with Python for scripting, tooling, or test automation in support of C++ development. • Experience using Git-based platforms such as GitLab or GitHub for source control and collaborative development. • Familiarity with the Standard Template Library (STL) and its effective use in modern C++. • Strong debugging and problem-solving skills in embedded and networked software systems. • Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment, participate in code reviews, and communicate technical concepts clearly. Additional Skills & Qualifications • Experience with C programming in the context of embedded or systems-level software. • Understanding of gRPC or similar communication frameworks for inter-process or inter-system communication. • Exposure to satellite communications (satcom) or space-related software systems. • Experience with MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) is a strong asset but not mandatory. • Experience in developing or supporting networking solutions involving routers, switches, and Ethernet-based infrastructure. • Experience with software tools, libraries, and frameworks that support large-scale engineering programs. • Comfort working with legacy C++ standards (C++11 or C++14) while contributing to modernization efforts toward newer standards. • Interest in long-term consulting engagements and contributing to large, multi-year engineering programs. Work Environment This role is based on site in downtown Ottawa in a highly technical engineering environment focused on a major LEO satellite program. The position follows a hybrid schedule where four days per week are on site, with Wednesday designated as a work-from-home day. You will work closely with other engineers and cross-functional teams using Linux-based systems, embedded development toolchains, GitLab or GitHub for version control, and a range of networking and satellite communication technologies. The environment emphasizes collaboration, code quality, and long-term project stability, offering the chance to contribute to a large, multi-year space program while partnering with a global engineering services organization. Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Ottawa, ON. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $60.00 - $75.00/hr. Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Ottawa,ON. 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Ordonnance sur l’égalité des chances de San Francisco: Conformément à l’Ordonnance sur l’égalité des chances de San Francisco, pour tous les postes situés dans la ville et le comté de San Francisco, nous examinerons les candidatures des personnes qualifiées ayant un casier judiciaire ou des antécédents criminels. Utilisation de l’intelligence artificielle (IA): Nous pouvons utiliser l’intelligence artificielle (IA) pour soutenir certaines étapes de notre processus d’embauche, notamment la recherche, la présélection et l’évaluation des candidatures. L’IA aide à analyser les candidatures et les qualifications, mais les décisions finales sont prises par notre équipe de recrutement. En soumettant votre candidature, vous reconnaissez et acceptez que celle-ci puisse être examinée à l’aide d’outils d’IA. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

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